DeSantis: Don’t Use Generators Inside, it Can be Fatal

TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis warned Floridians not to use their generators inside of their homes during Hurricane Ian.

“Make sure if you’re using things like generators, that you are using those properly. Those generators cannot be operated inside your structure or your home. The exhaust has to go outside. If it’s inside, then that could be something that is fatal,” he said.

Leaving generators inside a home can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Tips for using a generator include keeping the generator dry, maintained, using safe power cords, and placing the device 20 feet away from the house. 

In 2020, the majority of the deaths in Hurricane Laura was due to the improper use of portable generators. NPR reports that the victims of carbon monoxide poisoning outnumbered the deaths caused by drowning, fallen trees and storm cleanup. 

With any pending hurricane, “officials warn that the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning persists” as “more deaths associated with Hurricane Laura were caused by the improper use of portable generators than the storm itself”, according to NPR.

DeSantis has declared a state of emergency for all 67 counties in Florida. He has also waived weight restrictions on commercial trucks. 

“We want to ensure that adequate resources are being brought into the state of Florida,” the governor said. “We will also authorize emergency refills of prescriptions for 30 days.”

With thousands flocking to Florida, many may be experiencing their first hurricane. 

“All you new Floridians who haven’t been through one of these before… remain calm, there’s no need to panic. Listen to the folks at the local level, listen to what they advise in terms of preparations, any evacuations,” DeSantis cautioned.